1. Open Debate on Multilateralism at UNSC Chaired by Pakistan
Subject: International
- Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar, chaired an open debate on “Promoting International Peace and Security through Multilateralism and the Peaceful Settlement of Disputes” at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on July 22, 2025.
- The debate emphasized cooperative frameworks for conflict resolution, with India advocating for inclusive multilateralism that respects sovereignty.
- India reiterated its commitment to reformed multilateralism, pushing for UNSC reforms to reflect current geopolitical realities.
- The event precedes another UNSC session on July 23, focusing on the Palestine issue, highlighting India’s balanced stance on Middle East peace.
- India’s participation underscores its growing role in global diplomacy, aligning with its non-permanent UNSC membership (2021–22) and aspirations for a permanent seat.
- Concepts: Multilateralism involves multiple nations collaborating on global issues; India’s foreign policy emphasizes strategic autonomy and global cooperation.
2. Tamil Nadu’s Anti-Conversion Law Debate Intensifies
Subject: Polity (Tamil Nadu)
- The Tamil Nadu government is facing scrutiny over its proposed Anti-Conversion Law, with debates centering on Article 25 (Freedom of Religion) of the Constitution.
- Critics argue the law may infringe on individual rights, while supporters claim it protects vulnerable communities from coerced conversions.
- The state assembly is reviewing public feedback, with consultations involving religious leaders and civil society groups to ensure constitutional compliance.
- The issue mirrors similar laws in states like Uttar Pradesh, where the UP Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion (Amendment) Bill, 2024, tightened regulations.
- Tamil Nadu’s law aims to balance religious freedom with preventing fraudulent conversions, a sensitive issue in the state’s diverse socio-religious landscape.
- Concepts: Article 25 guarantees freedom to profess, practice, and propagate religion, subject to public order, morality, and health.
3. Employment Linked Incentive Scheme Gains Momentum
Subject: Economy (National)
- The Union Cabinet-approved Employment Linked Incentive (ELI) Scheme, launched on July 1, 2025, aims to create 5 crore formal jobs by July 2027, with a ₹1 lakh crore allocation.
- The scheme incentivizes first-time hiring and provides employer support to boost youth employability, particularly in manufacturing and MSMEs.
- Tamil Nadu, a key industrial hub, is expected to benefit significantly, with Chennai and Coimbatore emerging as focal points for job creation.
- The initiative aligns with India’s $4 trillion economy, projected to reach $32 trillion by 2047, emphasizing formal employment growth.
- Challenges include ensuring equitable job distribution across rural and urban areas and addressing skill gaps in the workforce.
- Concepts: Fiscal policy and employment generation are critical for economic growth; the ELI Scheme reflects India’s focus on inclusive development.
4. PM MITRA Park in Tamil Nadu Boosts Textile Sector
Subject: Economy (Tamil Nadu)
- The Union Government approved a ₹1,894 crore development plan for the PM MITRA Park in Virudhunagar, Tamil Nadu, to establish the state as a global textile hub.
- The park aims to attract ₹10,000 crore in investments over five years, creating thousands of direct and indirect jobs.
- It will integrate the entire textile value chain, from spinning to garment manufacturing, enhancing Tamil Nadu’s textile export potential.
- The project aligns with India’s broader economic goal of strengthening MSMEs and boosting export-driven growth.
- Challenges include ensuring sustainable practices and addressing environmental concerns in textile production.
- Concepts: Industrial clusters like PM MITRA promote economies of scale, fostering regional economic development and global competitiveness.
5. National Sports Policy 2025 Enhances Athlete Development
Subject: National (Polity)
- The National Sports Policy, approved on July 1, 2025, aims to integrate sports into daily life and position India as a global sports powerhouse.
- Key features include promoting mass participation, introducing fitness indices in schools and workplaces, and fostering an athlete-centric ecosystem.
- Tamil Nadu is implementing the policy through initiatives like the Khelo India centers, with Chennai hosting new training facilities.
- The policy emphasizes sports-education integration, embedding sports in academic curricula for holistic development.
- Governance reforms strengthen National Sports Federations for transparency and financial sustainability.
- Concepts: Public policy in sports promotes social inclusion, health, and national pride, aligning with India’s vision for global leadership.
